Fostering open communication in support of our high-integrity route to market

Operating across nearly 40 global markets, Inchcape is committed to the highest ethical standards and to ensuring every colleague understands their responsibilities. We believe a great workplace is one where everyone feels heard, valued, and respected.  

Rodrigo Gutierrez, Vice President of Digital and Distribution Excellence for the Americas, shares how Inchcape’s Open Door Policy is helping foster a culture of transparency, direct dialogue and trust in his region. 

Can you share some examples of initiatives that Inchcape has implemented to foster a culture of openness, respect, and trust in the workplace?

One key initiative is the introduction of the Open Doors Policy in Inchcape’s Americas region in 2024. This policy was developed through close collaboration between multiple teams and functions, with the shared goal of promoting a more open, respectful, and trusting culture by encouraging colleagues to engage directly with managers or leadership when they have concerns, questions, or suggestions. It was launched with strong leadership support and reinforced through a comprehensive communications campaign featuring manager briefings, digital signage, newsletters, and training. 

Additionally, the Speak Up! channel remains an important mechanism for confidential reporting, and its use has demonstrated that colleagues feel empowered to raise issues. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to ethical governance and inclusive communication as part of the Practices pillar of our Sustainability Framework.

How has the ‘Speak Up!’ channel and introduction of the Open Doors Policy impacted the way colleagues communicate with their managers and leaders?

The combination of the Speak Up! channel and the Open Doors Policy has significantly enhanced communication between colleagues and leadership. While the Speak Up! channel continues to provide a confidential avenue for reporting serious concerns, the Open Doors Policy is helping to strengthen day-to-day communication and trust. 

Since the policy’s launch, internal surveys have shown an increase in awareness of how to raise concerns and managers have reported more open, constructive conversations within their teams. This shift is leading to faster resolution of issues and stronger relationships across levels of the organisation. It has been a real team effort to bring this to life and together, these tools are creating a workplace where colleagues feel heard, supported, and safe to speak honestly.

What role do informal meetups, such as coffee chats, play in promoting a collaborative and more inclusive work environment?

Informal meetups like coffee chats importantly complement formal policies like Open Doors. They provide a relaxed setting where colleagues and leaders can build rapport, exchange ideas, and discuss concerns. These interactions help break down hierarchical barriers and foster a sense of community and inclusion. 

By encouraging informal dialogue, Inchcape is reinforcing a culture where communication flows openly – not just when issues arise, but as part of everyday working relationships. This supports collaboration, trust, and psychological safety, which are all essential to building a high-performing, inclusive workplace.